Man attempting to rape teenager badly beaten

NTOMBE – Three teenagers sought public assistance after a man attempted to allegedly rape a female in Trenance Park this afternoon (Tuesday). Residents of Ntombe reported the apprehension to RUSA officers at approximately 18:31. Reaction units were dispatched and on arrival discovered a large crowd of men, women and children on scene. They were beating a man with sjamboks and knobkieries. Reaction officers intervened and interviewed both parties. The parents of three thirteen (13) year old girls explained that their children visited a nearby tuck shop on Sunday. They were allegedly approached by a man who made sexual advances towards them. The girls proceeded home and informed their parents, who returned to the tuck shop in search of the suspect without success. This afternoon (Tuesday), the girls once again patronised the tuck shop. As they exited, the man allegedly grabbed one of the teenagers, lifted her dress and attempted to penetrate her. She pushed him away and fled. The teenagers returned home and informed their parents, who rallied the community for support. A mob proceeded to Trenance Park, where they apprehended the suspect. They returned to Ntombe with him and began assaulting him on the roadside. When interviewed, the suspect informed Reaction officers that the allegations levied against him were false. He further explained that he had seen the three girls at the tuck shop on both days but merely engaged in casual conversation with them. His zipper was found undone during the interview. He further claimed to be 25-years-old but appeared to be in his forties. The suspect was handed over to Police for further investigation.